The weather’s getting colder, your beach bags and pool toys are all tucked away, and it’s time to outfit yourself for apple picking, fall sports, leaf-peeping hikes, and whatever else your family gets up to between Labor Day and the start of the holiday season. From coolers to travel coffee mugs and even a portable s’mores station, here are 12 things we think will make your autumn agenda better than ever.
A diaper bag that can do it all…
First thing’s first: If you have a baby, we know you’re not going anywhere without a diaper bag, and this is a great backpack-style option. The original version is tear-resistant, waterproof, and has various perks like a changing pad, stroller clips, a laptop sleeve, and a pacifier pocket. There are 18 different colors and patterns to choose from, plus travel, wide, and vegan leather variations. ($43.99+, BabbleRoo)
A cooler you can easily wheel around…
Take the tailgate off-road with this travel-friendly 60-quart cooler that won’t ever get smushed in the trunk of your car. Drinks, sandwiches, picnic supplies, even groceries if you’re making an especially long trip — this thing is the perfect vessel for them all. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
The ultimate classic tote…
You’ve seen them everywhere, and we’ve definitely recommended them to you before — because these Maine-made canvas totes are the real deal. With kids in the picture, we prefer the extra-large zip top version with long handles, but you have plenty of options when it comes to size, color, and personalization. (One small tote per kid is a very cute idea, too.) ($39.95+, L.L.Bean)
A basic duffel for all those fall sports…
Soccer, hockey, swim lessons…no matter what your kid is up to this fall, you’ll need something to pack all their gear (and snacks, and water bottles) in. This water-resistant polyester duffel is a tried-and-true option with a convenient shoulder strap and lots of space. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
A picnic blanket for every adventure…
Whether it’s an outdoor baby music class or an honest-to-goodness picnic in the park, you’re going to need something to sit on. This water-resistant 5 foot by 7 foot picnic blanket comes in six different designs, and even has a shoulder strap you can use to carry it once it’s all folded up. ($22.11+, Walmart)
Two great options for travel snacks…
You know better than to get in the car snack-less. And as annoying as it can be to pack a whole bag for even the shortest of outings, you’ll thank yourself later for bringing a snack that actually appeals to your kiddo (and saves you from having to buy something on the road). We love the gamification of the GoBe snack container (which spins around when kids smack the middle button), and the utility of the Mothercould snack box set. ($29.95, Amazon)($23.95, Amazon)
A travel mug to keep your coffee warm…
Showing up to that school dropoff line/playground playdate/early morning travel game without a steaming container of caffeine? Couldn’t be you. This dishwasher-safe 20-ounce mug comes in 15 colors and can be customized with your own design, text, initials, or a range of predesigned graphics. ($38, Yeti)
And a bottle to keep the kids’ water cold…
Birthday parties, fall hikes, visiting the pumpkin patch…all things that are 10 times less painful when the kids aren’t whining that they’re thirsty. These insulated bottles hold 14 ounces of water, come in tons of fun patterns (from planets and construction vehicles to Gabby’s Dollhouse and Cocomelon), and can go in the dishwasher at the end of the day. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
A tabletop s’mores station…
If you can’t go camping this year, no problem — just bring the camping experience indoors. Plug this gadget in at home (or bring it to a grandparent or friend’s house), and roast your marshmallows by the heat of an electric coil. Four skewers are included, so all you need to do is stock up on your chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers of choice. ($30.99, Target)
A baby carrier that gives you options…
Truly your one-stop shop for baby carrying, this machine-washable cotton carrier will be a family fixture for years. For one thing, it works for babies and toddlers 7-45 pounds; it can also be used in a variety of configurations, both on your chest and on your back. You’ll love it anytime you’d prefer to leave the stroller at home. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
A lightweight jacket from an iconic brand…
This one’s just for you: a beautiful, practical, and long-lasting jacket that’s the perfect weight for fall and spring. The waxed cotton will keep you comfortable even in a light rain, and the pretty tartan lining and corduroy collar are classic Barbour touches. ($398, Bloomingdale’s)
A camera so they can document all their adventures…
Want to see your impeccably planned fall activities through your kids’ eyes (and stop them from begging to hold your phone)? Try this camera designed specifically for 3-8 year olds. They can document their favorite events of the season, and when the memory card is full, you can transfer all their favorite pics to your computer for posterity (note: for maximum storage, you’ll need to buy a memory card and USB cord separately). Make sure you have four AA batteries on hand to get started. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
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